Fluoride is naturally occurring in air, soil, rock, plants and some food/drink. It is also added to water supplies (does not change the taste or smell of water), toothpaste/mouth rinses, and dental products for professional use.
Fluoride protects the tooth surface by increasing the resistance of minerals lost due to acid attacks. The best and safest way to achieve this is by a constant LOW-LEVEL supply of fluoride from tap water and fluoridated toothpastes.
Fluoride alone does not completely prevent tooth decay. A combination of a balanced and healthy diet, regular brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups and using fluoridated toothpaste is also important in the fight against tooth decay.
Too much fluoride at an early age may cause the not yet erupted adult teeth to stain, also known as dental fluorosis. Fluorosis has a pearly-white mottling appearance on the tooth surface and does not affect the functioning of the tooth in any way. To prevent fluorosis, it is important that kids under 6 years old use children toothpaste and keep adult toothpaste out of their reach.
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